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3.13 Cultural Resources

3.13.1 Introduction

This section identifies the cultural, historic, and tribal cultural resources (TCR) within the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area and provides an evaluation of potential cultural, historic, and 

tribal resources-related effects associated with the No Build Alternative and the Build Alternative

Options. Information contained in this section is summarized from the Cultural, Historic, and Tribal 

Resources Technical Memorandum (Appendix H of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR).

FRA determined its federal action to provide financial assistance for the development of this Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR is an undertaking, as defined in Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation 

Act (NHPA) and its implementing regulations (36 CFR Part 800); however, this planning effort does 

not have the potential to affect historic properties. In making this determination, FRA has no further 

obligations under Section 106 with respect to this undertaking (i.e., Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR). 

If one of the Build Alternative Options receives federal funding or requires federal approval to 

advance to construction during Tier 2/Project-level analysis, the funding action or approval may be 

considered a separate undertaking subject to Section 106. 

To inform future undertakings that could be required during Tier 2/Project-level analysis, this Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR provides a preliminary identification of historic properties using data on 

previously evaluated cultural resources. Information on historic properties was obtained through the 

California Historical Resources Information System, as well as consultation with Native American

tribes and other consulting parties to further identify known historic properties.

3.13.2 Regulatory Framework

In accordance with NEPA (42 USC Section 4321 et seq.), CEQ regulations implementing NEPA 

(40 CFR Parts 1501-1508), FRA’s Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts (64 FR

28545, May 26, 1999) and CEQA, FRA identified cultural, historic, and TCRs within the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area and evaluated the potential impacts on those resources as a 

result of implementing the Build Alternative Options.
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Federal

National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106

Section 106 of the NHPA (1966), as amended in 2000 [36 CFR Part 800]), established a national 

policy of historic preservation and encourages such preservation. The NHPA established the 

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and provided procedures for the agency to follow if a 

proposed action affects a property that is included, or that may be eligible for inclusion, in the NRHP.

The NRHP was developed as a direct result of the NHPA. 

Section 106 requires federal agencies to consider the impact of federal undertakings on any district, 

site, building, structure, or object included or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP. An undertaking is 

defined as a project, activity, or program funded in whole or in part under the direct or indirect 

jurisdiction of a federal agency, including those carried out with federal funding, or requiring a federal 

permit, license, or approval.

National Register of Historic Places

NRHP eligibility determinations require an assessment of historic resources in relation to relevant 

historic contexts through criteria set forth in 36 CFR Section 60. The Advisory Council on Historic 

Preservation’s implementing regulations, “Protection of Historic Properties,” are found in 36 CFR 

Part 800. The NRHP criteria (36 CFR Part 60.4) are used to evaluate resources when complying 

with Section 106 of the NHPA. Those criteria state that eligible resources comprise “districts, sites, 

buildings, structures, and objects that possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, 

workmanship, feeling, and association,” and any of the following criteria:

• Criterion A: That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the 

broad patterns of our history;

• Criterion B: That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past;

• Criterion C: That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of 

construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic value, or 

that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual 

distinction; or

• Criterion D: That has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or 

history.
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Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966

Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966, codified in federal law at 49 USC

Section 303, declares that “it is the policy of the U.S. Government that special effort should be made 

to preserve the natural beauty of the countryside and public park and recreation lands, wildlife and 

waterfowl refuges, and historic sites.”

Section 4(f) specifies that the Secretary of Transportation may approve a transportation program or 

project requiring the use of publicly owned land of a public park, recreation area, or wildlife and 

waterfowl refuge of national, state, or local significance, or land of an historic site of national, state, 

or local significance (as determined by the federal, state, or local officials having jurisdiction over the 

park, area, refuge, or site) only if both of the following occur:

• There is no prudent and feasible alternative to using that land; and

• The program or project includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the park, 

recreation area, wildlife and waterfowl refuge, or historic site resulting from the use.

Section 4(f) resources are addressed in more detail in Chapter 5, Section 4(f) and 6(f) Discussion, of 

this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR.

State

Assembly Bill 4239

In 1976, AB 4239 established the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) as the primary 

government agency responsible for identifying and cataloging Native American cultural resources.

Assembly Bill 52

In 2014, California Governor Jerry Brown signed AB 52 that established an additional requirement 

under CEQA for consultation with Native American tribes regarding TCRs. AB 52 requires that the 

CEQA lead agency notify any interested Native American tribes of a proposed project, only if those 

tribes have requested to be notified regarding the CEQA lead agency’s projects. The CEQA lead 

agency must consult in good faith with participating California Native American tribes prior to the 

release of the EIR. If a project has the potential to affect a TCR, the CEQA document must discuss 

whether there is a significant effect on a TCR and whether there are feasible alternatives or 

mitigation to avoid or substantially lessen effects on the TCR. Consultation is finished when one of 

the following applies: the parties agree to avoid or mitigate significant impacts on TCRs, or the 

CEQA lead agency, acting in good faith and after reasonable effort, concludes that mutual 

agreement cannot be reached.
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California Health and Safety Code, Section 7050.5

This code makes it a misdemeanor to disturb or remove human remains found outside a cemetery. If 

human remains are discovered, this code also requires a project owner to halt construction and to 

contact the County Coroner.

California Register of Historical Resources

The California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) is “an authoritative listing and guide to be 

used by state and local agencies, private groups, and citizens to identify the existing historical 

resources of the state and indicate which resources deserve to be protected, to the extent prudent 

and feasible, from substantial adverse change” (California PRC Section 5024.1(a)). Certain 

resources are determined by the statute to be automatically included in the CRHR, including 

California properties formally determined eligible for, or listed in, the NRHP (PRC Section 5024.1(d)).

Similar to NRHP, CRHR eligibility determinations require an assessment of historic resources in 

relation to relevant historic contexts through the following designation criteria:

• Criterion 1: Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad 

patterns of local or regional history or the cultural heritage of California or the U.S.

• Criterion 2: Associated with the lives of persons important to local, California, or national 

history

• Criterion 3: Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region or method of 

construction or represents the work of a master or possesses high artistic values

• Criterion 4: Has yielded, or has the potential to yield, information important to the prehistory 

or history of the local area, California, or the nation

Office of Historic Preservation

The Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) implements the policies of the NHPA on a statewide level. 

The SHPO is an appointed official who implements historic preservation programs within the state’s 

jurisdictions.

Public Resources Code

• PRC 5097.5: Provides for the protection of cultural resources and prohibits the removal, 

destruction, injury, or defacement of archaeological features on any lands under the 

jurisdiction of state or local authorities.

• PRC 5097.97: States that no agency or party shall cause severe or irreparable damage to 

any Native American sanctified cemetery, place of worship, religious or ceremonial site, or 
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sacred shrine located on public property, except on a clear and convincing showing that the 

public interest and necessity so require. No previously recorded Native American religious or 

ceremonial sites are documented within the Tier 1/ Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area.

• PRC 5097.98 (b) and (e): Requires a landowner on whose property Native American human 

remains are found to limit further development activity in the vicinity until he/she confers with 

the NAHC-identified most likely descendants to consider treatment options. In the absence of 

most likely descendants or of a treatment acceptable to all parties, the landowner is required 

to reenter the remains elsewhere on the property in a location not subject to further 

disturbance.

• PRC 65092: Provides for notices of projects to be sent to California Native American tribes 

that are on the contact list maintained by the NAHC in the definition of "person" to whom 

notice of public hearings shall be sent by local governments.

Regional

Los Angeles County 2035 General Plan

The policies in the Los Angeles County 2035 General Plan, Conservation and Natural Resources

Element recognizes the importance of protecting cultural resources and ensures that these 

resources are considered in project planning. These policies include the preservation and 

rehabilitation of historic buildings, mitigation of impacts from new development on or adjacent to 

historic, cultural, and paleontological resources to the greatest extent feasible, and implementation 

of proper notification and recovery processes for development on or near historic, cultural, and 

paleontological resources.

Orange County General Plan

The goals and policies in the Orange County General Plan, Resources Element recognizes the 

importance of protecting cultural resources and ensures that these resources are considered in 

project planning (Orange County 2005).

County of Riverside General Plan

The policies in the County of Riverside General Plan, Multipurpose Open Space Element recognizes 

the importance of cultural resources with the development of policies to ensure these resources are 

considered in project planning (County of Riverside 2003). These policies include application of the 

Cultural Resources Program to projects subject to environmental review; government-to-government 

consultation; application processing requirements; information databases; confidentiality of site 

locations; content and review of technical studies; professional consultant qualifications and 
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requirements; site monitoring; examples of preservation and mitigation techniques and methods; 

curation and the descendant community consultation requirements of local, state, and federal law.

County of San Bernardino General Plan

The policies in the County of San Bernardino General Plan, Conservation Element recognizes the 

importance of cultural resources with the development of policies to ensure these resources are 

considered in project planning (County of San Bernardino 2014). These policies include the 

preservation and promotion of historic and prehistoric cultural heritage and the identification and 

protection of important archaeological and historic cultural resources in areas of the county that have 

been determined to have known cultural resource sensitivity.

Local and Tribal Governments

Regulations from cities, local agencies, and tribal governments would be identified in the Tier 

2/Project-level analysis once site-specific rail infrastructure improvements and station facilities are 

known.

3.13.3 Methods for Evaluating Environmental Effects

FRA, Caltrans, and RCTC are using a tiered NEPA process (e.g., Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR) to 

complete the environmental review of the Program, pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1508.28 (titled 

“Tiering”) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15168 (titled “Program EIR”) and Section 15170 (titled 

“Joint EIS/EIR”). Tiering is a staged environmental review process applied to complex transportation 

projects. The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR, along with the concurrent preparation of the SDP, are the first 

steps in this tiered environmental review process. After the completion of the SDP, the broader

proposed Program scope, which defines necessary infrastructure improvements, would be known.

Once funding is secured for further work, the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR and SDP would be followed by 

Tier 2/Project-level analysis for site-specific infrastructure improvements and station facilities. This 

would be considered the second tier of environmental evaluation because it is based on the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR that outlined the broad Program scope. This future Tier 2/Project-level analysis

would closely align with the future preliminary engineering process and would analyze site-specific 

direct and indirect Project-level impacts, in addition to any required permits, consultations, or 

approvals needed for construction. If any Tier 2/Project-level analysis is sponsored by a federal 

agency, it would be subject to all relevant federal environmental laws and regulations, and the Tier 

2/Project-level environmental documents would be led by the sponsoring federal agency. 

Construction of the proposed rail infrastructure or station facility would not commence until after 

environmental clearance is completed at the Tier 2/Project-level.
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Similarly, the Section 106 implementing regulations allow agencies to use a phased process to 

comply with Section 106 in coordination with NEPA, per 36 CFR Part 800.8(c)(1)(ii). At this time, 

FRA is funding the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR planning phase only and has determined the planning 

effort does not have the potential to affect historic properties. However, to inform this planning effort 

and to facilitate potential future Section 106 reviews under Tier 2/Project-level analysis, FRA initiated

consultation under 36 CFR Part 800.3 and conducted a preliminary identification of historic

properties that included background research/data obtained from records search and other sources 

such as historical maps. It does not include data collected through archaeological or built 

environment surveys, nor does it include resource evaluations. The study completed in support of 

the Tier1/Program EIS/EIR incorporates pertinent information received through consultation on 

historic properties. 

The methodology used to evaluate potential effects on historic properties in this Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR is based on the methods that would inform the Section 106 process for an undertaking with 

the potential to affect historic properties. However, as site-specific locations for the Build Alternative 

Options rail infrastructure improvements and station facilities have not been selected at the Tier 

1/Program level, the analysis in this section is presented at a broader corridor level. A limited 

records search was completed for the Tier 1/Program service-level evaluation to summarize and 

provide an overview of known cultural resources within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study 

Area. Since the Western Section would not require ground disturbance and would use existing 

infrastructure, the limited record and archival searches were only conducted for the Eastern Section

of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area where ground-disturbing activities could occur. 

Where appropriate, publicly made data for the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area has been included in this section for context. The identification of known cultural 

resources within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area relies on data obtained from 

previously evaluated cultural resources. For this Tier 1/Program service-level evaluation, no cultural 

resources were evaluated for NRHP or CRHR eligibility. 

As part of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR scoping process, FRA, Caltrans, and RCTC identified 

potential consulting parties for Section 106 and AB 52, which included federal agencies, state 

agencies, local agencies, and federally and state-recognized Native American tribes that have 

cultural and traditional affiliation within or near the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area. Section 106 and AB 52 consultation letters were sent out to gather information 

from and to provide meeting opportunities with the potential consulting parties to discuss the 

Program.

Input received from the consulting parties would be documented in this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR and 

considered in future decision making. 
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Potential Tier 2/Project-Level Analysis Considerations

This Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR focuses on the evaluation of service-level impacts at the Program 

Corridor level. FRA has determined that this planning effort does not have the potential to affect 

historic properties or TCRs at the Tier 1/Program-level planning stage and that the Section 106 and 

AB 52 processes are complete for purposes of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR. 

If federal funding is used, or a federal approval is required, to advance any of the Build Alternative 

Options to construction, that federal action would require a Tier 2/Project-level analysis and be 

considered a separate undertaking. Subsequent Section 106 and AB 52 efforts would be contingent 

on the identification of construction funding for site-specific Tier 2/Project-level rail infrastructure 

improvements and station facilities and would be led by the lead federal and state agencies for the 

Tier 2/Project-level improvement. The completion of any subsequent phases of the Section 106 and 

AB 52 processes by a lead federal and state agency encompasses the identification of an area of 

potential effects, the geographic areas within which a project may affect historic properties, and 

survey work to further identify cultural resources within the area of potential effects. The lead federal 

and state agencies would consult with the SHPO and Tribal Heritage Preservation Officers (THPO), 

other consulting parties, and the public, as necessary, when making these identifications. Those 

cultural resources identified within the area of potential effects, would be evaluated for their eligibility 

for listing in the NRHP. The lead federal and state agencies would then complete the assessment of 

effects on historic properties and the resolution of any adverse effects. 

Therefore, the preliminary identification effort described in this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR may be used 

to inform a future Tier 2/Project-level analysis, Section 106, and AB 52 consultations. Additional 

cultural resources would likely be identified during the Tier 2/Project-level analysis once site-specific 

details, such as station locations and footprints, are known. Identification of the site-specific Tier 

2/Project-level study areas based on additional engineering and design would allow for consideration 

of site-specific measures to avoid, minimize, and mitigate impacts on cultural resources. 

If there is a subsequent undertaking related to the Build Alternative Options at the Tier 

2/Project-level, the lead federal agency for the undertaking would initiate consultation under Section 

106 and complete the process in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800. If the lead federal and state 

agencies determine the undertaking has the potential to affect historic properties, additional outreach 

and consultation to the SHPO, Native American tribes, and other consulting parties would be 

required. This outreach and consultation may be based on the work completed for this Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR. 

The findings and conclusions in this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR do not preclude the consideration of 

additional cultural or TCRs. During the Section 106 and AB 52 consultation process for this Tier 

1/Program effort, FRA and RCTC received input from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians of 
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the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation, Gabrieleño Band of Mission Indians – Kizh Nation, La Posta 

Band Diegueno Mission Indians of the La Posta Reservation, Pala Band of Mission Indians, San 

Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians. Input received from these 

consultations identified areas within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area that contain 

TCRs. However, the boundaries of where these TCRs are located have not been provided due to 

confidentiality and further consultation would be required at the Tier 2/Project-level to determine 

whether site-specific TCRs are present based on advanced engineering design (e.g., site-specific 

rail infrastructure improvements and station facilities). 

Avoidance is the preferred way to address impacts on cultural resources and TCRs. To the extent 

practicable, this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR identifies avoidance measures for further consideration in a 

Tier 2/Project-level analysis and future undertaking. Site-specific avoidance, minimization, and 

mitigation measures would be developed as engineering and design progresses, and in consultation 

with SHPO, Native American tribes, the public, and other consulting parties. 

Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

This service-level evaluation is limited to a desktop evaluation of the data sources described in 

Section 3.13.3. The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area was combined with data from 

national, state, and local inventories of archaeological and historical resources to determine the 

location of previously documented cultural resources proximate to the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area. A detailed description of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area is 

provided in Section 3.1, Introduction to Environmental Analysis.

Data Sources

Data available from the South Central Coastal Information Center and Eastern Information Center of 

the California Historical Resources Information System in addition to a variety of other sources were 

used to identify cultural resources located within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

Specifically, the following data sources were reviewed: 

• Federally designated historic districts and sites: To identify sites present within the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area, the National Park Service – U.S. Department of the 

Interior NRHP database was consulted. 

• State designated historic districts and sites: To identify sites present within the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area, the OHP CRHR database was consulted. This 

database also includes sites designated as California Historical Landmarks and California 

Points of Historical Interest. Additional resources consulted include records from the OHP
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Archaeological Determinations of Eligibility and the OHP Directory of Properties in the 

Historic Property Data File.

Related Resources

This evaluation incorporates data and evaluation from related resources to contribute to the 

assessment of effects on archaeological, historical, and TCRs. These related resources are 

identified in Table 3.13-1.

Table 3.13-1. Related Resource Inputs to Cultural Resources Assessment

Resource Input to Cultural Resources Assessment

Visual Quality and Aesthetics 

(Section 3.4)

Effects assessment on visual quality and aesthetics in relation to the NRHP-listed

resources were considered.

Noise and Vibration

(Section 3.6)

Effects assessment and identification of areas where noise and vibration 

thresholds may be exceeded in relation to any NRHP-listed resources were 

considered.

Geology, Soils, Seismicity, 

and Paleontological 

Resources

(Section 3.10)

Geologic conditions were considered.

Notes:

NRHP=National Register of Historic Places

3.13.4 Affected Environment

Cultural resources are evidence of past human activity that includes objects, structures, sites, and 

other articles of historic, archaeological, or architectural significance. Cultural resources are present 

throughout California as a result of millennia of human history. Historic properties are cultural 

resources that are included in, or are eligible for inclusion in, the NRHP maintained by the Secretary 

of the Interior. This term, according to the NHPA (54 USC Section 300101), as amended, includes 

prehistoric or historic districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects significant in American history, 

architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. The term also includes artifacts, records, and 

remains that are related to and located within such properties, and properties of traditional religious 

and cultural importance to a Native American tribe. Historic properties are afforded certain 

protections in accordance with state and federal legislation.

The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area crosses a large geographic area within Southern 

California, spanning approximately 144 miles from its western terminus in Los Angeles to its eastern 
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terminus in Coachella. The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area occurs within an existing 

railroad corridor that traverses areas that have predominately been heavily modified for urban 

purposes, especially in the Western Section, although some areas occur in or adjacent to lands that 

are undeveloped or contain natural vegetation. Much of the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area from Los Angeles to Colton is urbanized. The Eastern Section of the 

Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area is less urbanized with vacant land comprising the 

largest land use category within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study 

Area.

Archaeological and Historic Resources

The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area crosses through the Southern California region 

which has experienced multiple prehistory periods (Terminal Pleistocene, Paleoindian, Early 

Archaic, and Late Prehistoric). The most numerous of the archaeological resources in the Coachella 

Valley at the east end of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area date to the Late Prehistoric 

period consisting of small processing sites associated with the grinding of vegetal resources. Larger 

habitation sites were less common but displayed a wider range of activities and longer periods of 

occupation. Typical artifacts at these sites include Desert Side-notched and Cottonwood Triangular 

projectile points and Lower Colorado Buff Ware and Tizon Brown Ware ceramics. Lithic artifacts 

found at these sites are typically made from chert, volcanic, or quartz material. In addition to these 

Late Prehistoric period sites, portions of the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural 

Study Area are located within the shoreline boundaries of Lake Cahuilla, as shown on Figure 3.13-1.
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 1 of 6)
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 2 of 6)
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 3 of 6)
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 4 of 6)
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 5 of 6)
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Figure 3.13-1. Known Historical Resource Sites within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

(Page 6 of 6)
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Lake Cahuilla was a source of natural resources (e.g., water, freshwater mussels, waterfowl, and 

fish) that had profound effects on the prehistoric people who lived in the area and groups in the 

surrounding region. As a result, there were periods of increased human occupation around the lake,

resulting in hundreds of Late Prehistoric sites along lake’s shoreline and a lesser number that 

followed the shoreline as it receded. Eventually, silt from the Colorado River would flow through to 

Lake Cahuilla and would cut off the source of fresh water. Without a source of fresh water, Lake 

Cahuilla would quickly recede with proportional salinity.

At least four lake stands are widely accepted to have occurred, beginning around AD 700 and 

continuing until the late-seventeenth century. A fifth infilling, occurring after AD 1580, has been 

proposed based on recessional shoreline archaeological sites but more data is required for certainty. 

As previously mentioned, portions of the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural 

Study Area lie entirely within the high stand (approximately 40-foot) area. This indicates that there is 

the potential for archaeological sites located in this area to have been occupied during periods when 

Lake Cahuilla was either receding or less likely infilling.

The Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area crosses through the Southern California region 

which has also experienced multiple events in what is considered the historic period (1769 AD to 

Present). These events include:

• Initial Spanish contact in California and the subsequent colonization of Alta California,

generally known as the Spanish Colonial period (1769-1821) and the Mexican period 

(1821-1846);

• The rise of agricultural cultivation (with a focus on citrus cultivation) and the arrival of the 

California Southern (later the Santa Fe) and Southern Pacific Railroads during the 1870s and 

1880s;

• Residential and commercial development associated with the post-World War I residential 

and industrial activity of Southern California during the boom years of the 1920s; and

• The rise of military-related industries and a large military presence during World War II with 

the establishment of March Field (March Air Reserve Base) and San Bernardino Air Material 

Command (Norton Air Force Base).

Additional details related to the prehistory and historical overview of the Southern California region 

are provided in the Cultural, Historic, and Tribal Resources Technical Memorandum (Appendix H of 

this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR).
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Build Alternative Option 1 (Coachella Terminus)

Due to the programmatic nature of this Tier 1/Program planning document, this Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR provides a preliminary identification of historic properties using data on previously evaluated 

cultural resources (archaeological sites and historic properties), which can be used to inform a future 

undertaking. 

As shown on Figure 3.13-1, the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area 

contains six NRHP-listed sites (Santa Fe Railway Passenger and Freight Depot, Fullerton UP Depot, 

Elephant Packing House, Bixby-Bryant Ranch House, Sutherland Fruit Company, and San Pedro, 

Los Angeles, and Salt Lake Railroad Depot) and passes through one National Register Historic 

District (Grand Boulevard Historic District). Information provided on NRHP-listed sites within the 

Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area is provided for contextual 

purposes as no construction activities are proposed within the Western Section, and operational 

activities are anticipated to remain the same as existing operations within the Western Section of the 

Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

Due to the potential for ground disturbing activities to occur within the Eastern Section of the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area, a records search was conducted in July 2018 at the South 

Central Coastal Information Center and the Eastern Information Center. As summarized in 

Table 3.13-2, the records search resulted in the identification of 384 known cultural resources,

consisting of 117 archaeological sites and 267 built resources, within the Eastern Section of the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative Option 1. Additional details 

associated with these resources, an explanation of the California Historical Resource Status Codes

(used to classify the eligibility status of cultural resources for the NRHP and CRHR), and an 

explanation of California OHP Resource Attribute Codes are provided in the Cultural, Historic, and 

Tribal Resources Technical Memorandum (Appendix H of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR). 

Table 3.13-2. Summary of Known Cultural Resources Within the Eastern Section of the 

Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area (Build Alternative Option 1)

Cultural Resource Type 

NRHP- Listed 

Property

Potentially 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Eligible 

for 

NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Evaluated 

for NRHP 

Eligibility

Total 

Number of 

Resources

Archaeological Sites (historic only) 0 5 27 49 81

Archaeological Sites (prehistoric only) 0 3 6 18 27
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Cultural Resource Type 

NRHP- Listed 

Property

Potentially 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Eligible 

for 

NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Evaluated 

for NRHP 

Eligibility

Total 

Number of 

Resources

Archaeological Sites (historic and 

prehistoric) 

0 0 1 6 7

Archaeological Sites (unknown) 0 0 0 2 2

Archaeological Districts 0 0 0 0 0

Built environment (buildings) 1 30 106 105 242

Built environment (structures) 0 3 14 6 23

Built environment (objects) 0 0 0 2 2

Built environment (districts) 0 0 0 0 0

Total number of resources 1 41 154 188 384

Sources: Appendix H of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR

Notes: 

NRHP=National Register of Historic Places

As summarized in Table 3.13-2, of the 384 known archaeological sites and built resources located 

within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative 

Option 1, 42 known cultural resources are identified as historic properties or could be eligible for 

historic listing under NRHP or CRHR criteria. 188 known cultural resources have not been evaluated 

for NRHP and could potentially be identified as historic properties under NRHP or CRHR criteria.

As shown on Figure 3.13-1, there is one NRHP-listed property within the Eastern Section of the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. This property is the San Timoteo Canyon Schoolhouse,

which is located in the non-station area between the Loma Linda Station Area and the Pass Area 

Station Area. 

While the San Timoteo Canyon Schoolhouse is within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study 

Area, the resource does not intersect with the rail line, which is approximately 327 feet away. The 

San Timoteo Canyon Schoolhouse was found to be significant at the local level under NRHP 

Criterion A (the resource made a contribution to the major pattern of events in American history in 

the areas of education and social history), with a period of significance of 1895 to 1937. 

As part of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR scoping process, FRA, Caltrans, and RCTC identified 

potential consulting parties for Section 106 and AB 52, which included federal agencies, state 
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agencies, local agencies, and federally and state-recognized Native American tribes that have 

cultural and traditional affiliation within or near the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area. Section 106 and AB 52 consultation letters were sent out to gather information 

from and to provide meeting opportunities with the potential consulting parties to discuss the 

Program.

On October 15, 2019, FRA sent letters inviting the listed parties in Table 3.13-3 to review the 

preliminary identification information and provide any other information or input they may have about 

the Program. On November 22 and 26, 2019, additional follow-up emails were sent to all parties 

whose invitation letters failed to be delivered (FTA and San Gorgonio Pass Historical Society). A 

summary of responses received to date is provided in Table 3.13-3.

The Section 106 consultation is complete for purposes of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR. Input 

received during the public review period of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR would be taken into 

consideration as part of future Tier 2/Project-level analysis and mitigation measures. Any future Tier 

2/Project-level analysis would result in subsequent Section 106 consultation with local, state, and 

federal agencies, Native American tribes, and organizations to help identify site-specific TCR issues 

of concern. Native American Section 106 consultation efforts and summaries are provided under 

TCRs in Section 3.13.4. 
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Table 3.13-3. Section 106 Consulting Party Consultation Summary

Consulting Party Responses Received to Date

Federal Agencies

Bureau of Indian Affairs No response received to date.

BLM October 28, 2019: The BLM (Palm Springs/South Coast Field Office) responded with a 

request to remain on mailing list for updates on the Program.

February 13, 2020: John Dalton from the BLM Palm Springs Office attended a webinar 

about the Program. No further comments were received.

FTA November 27, 2019: FTA (Region IX) responded that it has no additional information, 

questions, or comments regarding the Program.

December 20, 2019: FRA extended a webinar invitation to FTA to discuss the Program and 

potential historic properties. FTA did not respond to the request and did not attend the 

webinar held February 13, 2020.

USFWS No response received to date.

State Agencies

California Department of Parks and Recreation No response received to date.

Caltrans, District 8 No response received to date.

California OHP November 14, 2019: The SHPO responded with a request to be kept informed as the 

undertaking progresses past the Tier 1/Program planning stages.

February 13, 2020: Natalie Lindquist from the California SHPO attended a webinar about 

the Program. No further comments were received.
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Consulting Party Responses Received to Date

County Agencies

Riverside County No response received to date.

San Bernardino County No response received to date.

Local Agencies

City of Banning No response received to date.

City of Beaumont No response received to date.

City of Calimesa No response received to date.

Cathedral City No response received to date.

City of Coachella No response received to date.

City of Colton No response received to date.

City of Colton – Historic Preservation Commission No response received to date.

City of Desert Hot Springs October 30, 2019: The City of Desert Hot Springs responded with a request to be added as 

a consulting party for purposes of Section 106. 

January 7, 2020: The City of Desert Hot Springs declined to participate in the webinar 

scheduled for February 13, 2020.

City of Indio October 21, 2019: The City of Indio responded with a request to be added as a consulting 

party for purposes of Section 106.

February 13, 2020: Kevin Snyder from the City of Indio attended a webinar about the 

Program. No further comments were received.
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Consulting Party Responses Received to Date

City of La Quinta No response received to date.

City of La Quinta – Historic Preservation Commission No response received to date.

City of Loma Linda No response received to date.

City of Moreno Valley No response received to date.

City of Palm Desert No response received to date.

City of Palm Desert – Cultural Resource Preservation 

Committee

No response received to date.

City of Palm Springs No response received to date.

City of Palm Springs – Historic Site Preservation Board No response received to date.

City of Rancho Mirage No response received to date.

City of Rancho Mirage – Historic Preservation Commission No response received to date.

City of Redlands No response received to date.

City of Redlands – Historic and Scenic Preservation 

Commission

No response received to date.

City of San Bernardino No response received to date.

City of Yucaipa No response received to date.
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Consulting Party Responses Received to Date

Museums and Non-profits

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum No response received to date.

Coachella Valley Historical Society No response received to date.

Colton Area Museum No response received to date.

Gilman Historic Ranch and Wagon Museum No response received to date.

Malki Museum on Morongo Indian Reservation No response received to date.

Moreno Valley Historical Society No response received to date.

Palm Springs Historical Society No response received to date.

Palm Springs Historical Society Museum No response received to date.

Palm Springs Museum of Architecture and Design No response received to date.

Palm Springs Preservation Foundation No response received to date.

Public Arts and Historic Preservation Commission No response received to date.

Redlands Area Historical Society No response received to date.

Redlands Historical Museum Association No response received to date.

San Bernardino County Museum No response received to date.

San Gorgonio Pass Historical Society No response received to date.
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Consulting Party Responses Received to Date

Yucaipa Valley Historical Society No response received to date.

Notes:

BLM=Bureau of Land Management; Caltrans=California Department of Transportation; FRA=Federal Railroad Administration; FTA=Federal Transit Administration; 

OHP=Office of Historic Preservation; SHPO=State Historic Preservation Officer; U.S.=United States; USFWS=United States Fish and Wildlife Service
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Build Alternative Option 2 (Indio Terminus)

The Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area for Build Alternative Option 

2 is the same as identified for Build Alternative Option 1. Information provided on NRHP-listed sites 

within the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area is provided for 

contextual purposes as no construction activities are proposed within the Western Section, and 

operational activities are anticipated to remain the same as existing operations within the Western 

Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

As summarized in Table 3.13-4, the records search resulted in the identification of a total of 

361 known cultural resources consisting of 112 archaeological sites and 249 built resources within 

the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative 

Options 2 and 3.

Table 3.13-4. Summary of Known Cultural Resources Within the Eastern Section of the 

Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area (Build Alternative Options 2 and 3)

Cultural Resource Type 

NRHP- Listed 

Sites

Potentially 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Evaluated 

for NRHP 

Eligibility

Total 

Number 

of Sites

Archaeological Sites (historic only) 0 5 27 49 81

Archaeological Sites (prehistoric only) 0 3 6 15 24

Archaeological Sites (historic and 

prehistoric) 

0 0 1 4 5

Archaeological Sites (unknown) 0 0 0 2 2

Archaeological Districts 0 0 0 0 0

Built environment (buildings) 1 25 106 93 225

Built environment (structures) 0 3 13 6 22

Built environment (objects) 0 0 0 2 2
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Cultural Resource Type 

NRHP- Listed 

Sites

Potentially 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Eligible 

for NRHP 

Listing

Not 

Evaluated 

for NRHP 

Eligibility

Total 

Number 

of Sites

Built environmental (districts) 0 0 0 0 0

Total number of sites 1 36 153 171 361

Sources: Appendix H of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR

Notes: 

NRHP=National Register of Historic Places

Regional history, NRHP-listed sites, and preliminary Section 106 consultation efforts for Build 

Alternative Option 2 are the same as Build Alternative Option 1.

Build Alternative Option 3 (Indio Terminus with Limited Third Track)

Regional history, NRHP-listed sites, and preliminary Section 106 consultation efforts for Build 

Alternative Option 3 are the same as Build Alternative Option 2.

Human Remains

Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5(b) specifies protocols to be followed when human remains 

are discovered. In addition, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 assigns special importance to human 

remains and establishes procedures to be used when Native American remains are discovered. 

Build Alternative Option 1 (Coachella Terminus)

As summarized in Table 3.13-2, there are 117 known archaeological resources located within the 

Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative Option 

1. Of these 117 known archaeological resources, human remains are present at 6 sites, 14 sites 

have the potential to contain human remains, and human remains are absent at the remaining 

97 sites. 

Build Alternative Option 2 (Indio Terminus)

As summarized in Table 3.13-4, there are 112 known archaeological resources located within the 

Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative Option 

2. Of these 112 known archaeological resources, human remains are present at 6 sites, 11 sites 

have the potential to contain human remains, and human remains are absent at the remaining 

95 sites. 
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Build Alternative Option 3 (Indio Terminus with Limited Third Track)

Information related to human remains for Build Alternative Option 3 are the same as Build 

Alternative Option 2.

Tribal Cultural Resources 

TCRs include site features, places, cultural landscapes, and sacred places or objects, which are of 

cultural value to a Native American tribe. Native American tribes have unique knowledge about 

sensitive resources important to tribal communities and provide insight to religious understanding, 

traditional stories, knowledge of resources (such as varying landscapes, bodies of waters, animals 

and plants), and self-identity. Knowledge of place is central to the continuation and persistence of 

culture. 

In compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA and AB 52 requirements of CEQA, FRA and RCTC are

undertaking Native American consultation to identify TCRs that could potentially occur within the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. This section provides a synopsis of the Native American 

consultation efforts that have occurred as of the date of this Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR. 

Build Alternative Option 1 (Coachella Terminus)

As part of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR scoping process, FRA, Caltrans, and RCTC identified 

potential consulting parties for Section 106 and AB 52 which included federally and state-recognized 

Native American tribes that have cultural and traditional affiliation within or near the Eastern Section 

of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

As part of federal government-to-government Section 106 tribal consultation efforts, a Sacred Lands 

File Search request was submitted to the NAHC for the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area on June 20, 2017, on behalf of FRA, the NEPA lead agency under 

Section 106. The NAHC responded June 27, 2017, that sites to which Native American tribes may 

attach religious and cultural significance are present within the Eastern Section of the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area but provided no specific information regarding the sites’ 

nature or location other than USGS Quadrangle township and range locations. In addition, the 

NAHC provided a list of Native American tribes that may have information regarding TCRs in or near 

the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area, with recommendations to 

contact the local tribal entities for more information regarding the sites. 

No construction activities would be required to implement the Build Alternative Options within the 

Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area because the existing railroad 

ROW and station areas from LAUS to Colton would be used to increase service by two daily round 
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trips. For this reason, the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area was 

not included as part of the request to NAHC.

On October 15, 2019, FRA mailed invitations to consult to the list of Native American tribes identified 

in Table 3.13-5. On November 5, 2019, a follow-up email was sent to those mailing recipients whose 

letters were returned undeliverable. On December 20, 2019, a final follow-up email was sent to all 

Native American tribes who had not yet responded, using the original October 15, 2019 letter as an 

attachment. For any Native American tribe where an email was either unavailable or undeliverable, a 

follow-up phone call was made. A summary of responses received is provided in Table 3.13-5.

The Section 106 Native American consultation is complete for purposes of this Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR. Input received during the public review period of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR would be 

taken into consideration as part of future Tier 2/Project-level analysis and site-specific mitigation 

measures. Any future Tier 2/Project-level analysis would result in subsequent Section 

106 consultation with Native American tribes to identify TCR issues of concern.
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Table 3.13-5. Section 106 Native American Consultation Summary

Native American Tribe Responses Received to Date

Federally Recognized Tribes

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians of the Agua 

Caliente Indian Reservation

November 15, 2020: The Native American tribe responded and requests

government-to-government consultation, additional information regarding the Program (shapefiles of 

the area of potential effects, copies of any cultural resource documentation), and to schedule a 

meeting with FRA to discuss the Program.

February 13, 2020: Lacy Padilla and Patty Garcia, THPO, from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla 

Indians of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation attended a webinar about the Program. The THPO 

requested and FRA provided a copy of the presentation, shapefiles for the alignment, and all 

records search results for the internal files. No formal written comments were received from the tribe 

or THPO.

Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians No response received to date

Cabazon Band of Mission Indians No response received to date

Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians No response received to date

Campo Band of Mission Indians No response received to date

Ewiiappayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians No response received to date

Jamul Indian Village of California No response received to date

La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians No response received to date

La Posta Band Diegueno Mission Indians of the La 

Posta Reservation

December 20, 2019: The Native American tribe responded and recommended that if there is 

ground disturbance, a native monitor should be on site. The Native American tribe has not 

requested government-to-government consultation with FRA.
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Native American Tribe Responses Received to Date

Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians No response received to date

Manzanita Band Diegueno Mission Indians of the 

Manzanita Reservation California

No response received to date

Morongo Band of Cahuilla Mission Indiansa January 29, 2020: Morongo THPO, Travis Armstrong, verbally discussed participating in Section 

106 consultation with FRA. 

Pala Band of Mission Indiansa March 5, 2020: Pala Band of Mission Indians THPO, Dr. Shasta Gaughen, responded that the 

Program is not within the boundaries of the recognized Pala Indian Reservation and is beyond the 

boundaries of the territory that the Pala Band of Mission Indians considers its Traditional Use Area. 

Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians – Pauma and Yuma 

Reservationa

No response received to date

Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the 

Pechanga Reservationa

No response received to date

Ramona Band of Cahuilla No response received to date

Rincon Band of Luiseno Mission Indians of the Rincon 

Reservationa

No response received to date

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians November 25, 2019: The Native American tribe responded that it does not elect to be a consulting 

party for purposes of the Tier 1/Program evaluation. However, the Native American tribe has 

indicated that it would like to be informed of Tier 2/Project-level analysis.

San Pasqual Band of Diegueno Mission Indians of 

Californiaa

No response received to date

Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians No response received to date
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Native American Tribe Responses Received to Date

Soboba Band of Luiseno Indiansa November 18, 2019: The Native American tribe responded with a request for 

government-to-government consultation and to schedule a meeting with FRA. The Native American 

tribe has also requested that a Soboba Native American Monitor be present for all ground-disturbing 

activities and that procedures regarding repatriation of cultural items, treatment and disposition of 

human remains, coordination with County Coroner’s Office, and non-disclosure of reburial locations 

be implemented.

January 30, 2020: In a separate meeting regarding a different project, Joseph Ontiveros, THPO, 

from the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians, requested shapefiles of the alignment from FRA. The

shapefiles, as requested, were sent to THPO Joseph Ontiveros on January 30, 2020

February 10, 2020: Joseph Ontiveros, THPO, from the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians provided a 

letter notifying FRA of a potentially eligible Traditional Cultural Property for the NRHP and CRHR. It 

recommended that consultation with Soboba continues, and that future federal actions associated 

with the area incorporate an approach that considers tribal resources.

February 11, 2020: Joseph Ontiveros, THPO, from the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians attended a 

webinar about the Program. The THPO requested and FRA provided a copy of the presentation, 

shapefiles for the alignment, and all records search results for the internal files. No formal written 

comments were received from the tribe or THPO.

Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation No response received to date

Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians No response received to date

Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians of 

Californiaa

No response received to date

Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indiansa No response received to date
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Native American Tribe Responses Received to Date

Non-Federally Recognized Tribes

Gabrieleño Band of Mission Indians – Kizh Nation January 16, 2020: The Native American tribe responded with a request for 

government-to-government consultation under Section 106 and to schedule a meeting with FRA. 

January 23, 2020: The Tier 1/Program team contacted Chairman Andrew Salas on behalf of FRA to 

discuss setting up a meeting. After this initial discussion, Chairman Salas indicated that there was 

no need to meet at this time to further discuss the Tier 1/Program evaluation; however, Chairman 

Salas indicated that the Kizh Nation wants to be involved and informed of Tier 2/Project-level 

analysis.

Gabrieleno/Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission 

Indians

No response received to date

Gabrielino Tongva Indians of California Tribal Council No response received to date

Gabrielino/Tongva Nation No response received to date

Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe No response received to date

San Fernando Band of Mission Indians No response received to date

Serrano Nation of Mission Indians No response received to date

Notes:

a This indicates the Native American tribe has a THPO.

CRHR=California Register of Historical Resources; FRA=Federal Railroad Administration; NRHP=National Register Historic Places; THPO=Tribal Historic 

Preservation Officer
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Recognizing that Native American tribes may have expertise with regard to their tribal history and 

practices, AB 52 requires that RCTC, as the lead agency under CEQA, provide notice to Native 

American tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of the Project if 

they have requested notice of projects proposed within that area. As part of AB 52 Native American 

consultation efforts, RCTC mailed invitations to consult to the list of Native American tribes identified 

in Table 3.13-6. A summary of responses received, is provided in Table 3.13-6. RCTC has 

completed AB 52 Native American consultation for purposes of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR.
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Table 3.13-6. Assembly Bill 52 Native American Consultation Summary

Native American Tribe Responses Received to Date

Gabrieleño Band of 

Mission Indians – Kizh 

Nation

October 19, 2016: RCTC sends out an invitation to consult on the Program for purposes of AB 52.

October 30, 2016: The Native American tribe responded with a request for government-to-government consultation under AB 52. 

August 29, 2019: RCTC provided additional information (updated Program description and background research conducted 

regarding known archaeological resources within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area). Since the Western Section of 

the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area, located largely within the Gabrieleño Band of Mission Indians Kizh Nation 

Ancestral Territory, did not propose any ground-disturbing activities, RCTC asked that the Native American tribe reconfirm their 

request to consult under AB 52 for the Tier 1/Program evaluation. 

September 30, 2019: RCTC sent a follow-up email to request confirmation by October 4, 2019, from the Native American tribe on 

the need to consult further under AB 52 based on the information RCTC provided on August 29, 2019. No further response has 

been received.

San Manuel Band of 

Mission Indians

August 29, 2019: RCTC sends out an invitation to consult on the Program for purposes of AB 52.

September 11, 2019: The Native American tribe responded with a request for further information to assess their level of 

involvement with the Tier 1/Program analysis. The Native American tribe also stated that, while the majority of the Tier 1/Program 

EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area exists outside of Serrano ancestral territory, there are concerns regarding the portion from Colton to 

Beaumont and Banning and the Loma Linda/Redlands/Colton area within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area.

September 30, 2019: RCTC provided additional information (copy of the Cultural Resources Technical Memorandum).

October 3, 2019: Upon review of the additional information provided, the Native American tribe noted that they did not have 

concerns with the Draft Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR and will wait until Tier 2/Project-level notifications to discuss specific activities that 

may impact resources of concern to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

Notes:

a This indicates the Native American Tribe has a THPO.

AB=Assembly Bill; EIS=environmental impact statement; EIR=environmental impact report; RCTC=Riverside County Transportation Commission; THPO=Tribal 

Historic Preservation Officer
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Build Alternative Option 2 (Indio Terminus)

Information related to TCRs within Build Alternative Option 2 are the same as Build Alternative 

Option 1.

Build Alternative Option 3 (Indio Terminus with Limited Third Track)

Information related to TCRs within Build Alternative Option 3 are the same as Build Alternative 

Option 1.

3.13.5 Environmental Consequences

Overview

An adverse effect is defined by Section 106 regulations as an effect that alters, directly or indirectly, 

the qualities that make a resource eligible for listing in the NRHP (36 CFR Part 800.5[a][1]). A 

property’s location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association must be 

considered to the extent that these qualities contribute to the integrity and significance of a resource. 

Adverse effects may be direct and reasonably foreseeable, or they may be more remote in time or 

distances that an effect alters the qualities that make a resource eligible for listing in the NRHP, 

directly or indirectly (36 CFR Part 800.5[a][1]). 

A project that causes a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource is a 

project that may have a substantial effect under CEQA (PRC Section 15064.5[b]). A substantial 

adverse change in the significance of a historical resource means physical demolition, destruction, 

relocation, or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings such that the significance of 

the historical resource would be materially impaired. The significance of a historical resource is 

materially impaired if a project demolishes or materially alters any qualities that justify the inclusion 

or eligibility for inclusion of a resource in the CRHR or inclusion of the resource on a local register.

Additionally, a project with an effect that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance 

of a TCR is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment (PRC Section 21084.2).

If an archaeological site does not meet the criteria for a historical resource but does meet the 

definition of a unique archaeological resource, mitigation or avoidance measures would be 

implemented (14 CCR Section 15064.5[b][3]). If an archaeological resource is neither a unique 

archaeological resource or a historical resource, the effects of the project on those resources would

not be considered a significant effect on the environment. It would be sufficient that both the 

resources and the effects on it are included in the initial study or EIR, if one is prepared to address 
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effects on other resources, but they need not be considered further in the CEQA process (14 CCR 

Section 15064.5[c][4]).

FRA determined its federal action to provide financial assistance for the development of this Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR is an undertaking, as defined in Section 106 of the NHPA, and its implementing 

regulations (36 CFR Part 800), but this planning effort does not have the potential to affect historic 

properties. In making this determination, FRA has no further obligations under Section 106 with 

respect to this undertaking (i.e., Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR). Completion of subsequent Section 106 

processes would occur pursuant to the August 17, 2018 Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Program Comment to Exempt Consideration of Effects to Rail Properties within Rail Rights-of-Way,

as well as 36 CFR Part 800, as appropriate, if there is a future undertaking associated with 

construction under Tier 2/Project-level analysis.

No Build Alternative

The No Build Alternative, as described in Chapter 2, Program Alternatives, is used as the baseline 

for comparison. The No Build Alternative would not implement the Program associated with this 

service–level evaluation. Because no physical changes would occur, no effects on cultural or tribal 

resources are anticipated under the No Build Alternative. 

Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3

Historic Property Effects 

CONSTRUCTION

Western Section. No construction activities would be required to implement any of the Build 

Alternative Options within the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

because the existing railroad ROW and stations from LAUS to Colton would be used. The Build 

Alternative Options would not require construction of new stations, new track or extensions to 

existing track, or the addition of sidings, wayside signals, drainage, or at-grade separations within 

the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. Therefore, no 

ground-disturbing activities would be anticipated that could result in the disturbance of known or 

previously undiscovered historic properties. When compared with the No Build Alternative, effects on 

historic properties would be negligible within the Western Section under Build Alternative Options

1, 2, and 3.
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Eastern Section. Effects on historic properties would vary depending on the future location of a 

passenger rail system within the selected Build Alternative Option. Construction of rail infrastructure 

improvements and station facilities could result in effects on known cultural resources if the 

resources are near or within an area where an infrastructure improvement or station facility is being 

constructed. In addition, ground-disturbing activities may also result in inadvertent discovery of 

previously unknown cultural resources.

As summarized in Table 3.13-2, there are 384 known cultural resources within the Eastern Section 

of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative Option 1. Of these 

384 known cultural resources, 1 resource is a listed NRHP property, 41 resources are potentially 

eligible for NRHP or CRHR listing, and 188 resources have not been evaluated for NRHP or CRHR

eligibility.

As summarized in Table 3.13-4, there are 361 known cultural resources within the Eastern Section 

of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area under Build Alternative Options 2 and 3. Of these 

361 known cultural resources, 1 resource is a listed NRHP property, 36 resources are potentially 

eligible for NRHP or CRHR listing, and 171 resources have not been evaluated for NRHP or CRHR

eligibility.

Effects on known and previously unknown cultural resources may include damage or destruction 

during ground-disturbing activities associated with construction of rail infrastructure improvements or 

station facilities within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

Damage may also be caused through vibrations caused by geotechnical testing, use of heavy 

equipment, or any earth-moving activities. 

Avoidance is the preferred way to address cultural resources. As all the Build Alternative Options 

propose use of the same corridor, avoidance options at the broad, corridor service-level are limited. 

However, as described above, decisions on avoidance methods would be evaluated and determined 

during Tier 2/Project-level analysis when site-specific details on the rail infrastructure improvement 

or station facility are known. When compared with the No Build Alternative, Build Alternative Option 

1 could have a substantial effect on cultural resources within the Eastern Section of the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. When compared with Build Alternative Option 1, Build 

Alternative Options 2 and 3 would have slightly reduced effects due to a shorter route alignment and 

reduced station options. However, the magnitude of effects would be similar and considered 

substantial when compared with the No Build Alternative.
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OPERATION

Western and Eastern Sections. Under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3, passenger train 

frequencies proposed as part of the Program would consist of the addition of two daily round-trip,

intercity, diesel-powered passenger trains operating the entire length of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area between Los Angeles and Coachella. Operational effects are anticipated to be 

limited to maintenance of culverts, bridges, embankments, and station areas, which are not 

anticipated to result in ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, no ground-disturbing activities would 

be anticipated that could result in the disturbance of known or previously undiscovered historic 

properties. When compared with the No Build Alternative, effects on historic properties would be 

negligible within the Western and Eastern Sections under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3.

Human Remain Effects 

CONSTRUCTION

Western Section. No construction activities would be required to implement any of the Build 

Alternative Options within the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

because the existing railroad ROW and stations from LAUS to Colton would be used. The Build 

Alternative Options would not require construction of new stations, new track or extensions to 

existing track, or the addition of sidings, wayside signals, drainage, or at-grade separations within 

the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. Therefore, no 

ground-disturbing activities would be anticipated that could result in the disturbance of human 

remains. When compared with the No Build Alternative, effects on human remains would be 

negligible within the Western Section under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3.

Eastern Section. Construction of rail infrastructure improvements and station facilities could result in 

effects on human remains if human remains are present within an area where an infrastructure 

improvement or station facility is being constructed. In addition, ground-disturbing activities may also 

result in inadvertent discovery of previously unknown human remains. CEQA Guidelines Section

15064.5€ requires that excavation activities be stopped whenever human remains are uncovered 

and the County Coroner be called in to assess the remains. If the County Coroner determines that 

the remains are those of Native Americans, the NAHC must be contacted within 24 hours. At that 

time, the lead agency must consult with the appropriate Native Americans, if any, as identified by the 

NAHC. CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 directs the lead agency, under certain circumstances, to 

develop an agreement with the Native Americans for the treatment and disposition of the remains. 

When compared with the No Build Alternative, Build Alternative Option 1 could have a moderate 

effect on human remains within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study 

Area. When compared with Build Alternative Option 1, Build Alternative Options 2 and 3 would have 
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slightly reduced effects due to a shorter route alignment and reduced station options. However, the 

magnitude of effects would be similar and considered moderate when compared with the No Build 

Alternative.

OPERATION 

Western and Eastern Sections. Under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3, passenger train 

frequencies proposed as part of the Program would consist of the addition of two daily round-trip,

intercity, diesel-powered passenger trains operating the entire length of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area between Los Angeles and Coachella. Operational effects are anticipated to be 

limited to maintenance of culverts, bridges, embankments, and station areas, which are not 

anticipated to result in ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, no ground-disturbing activities would 

be anticipated that could result in the disturbance of human remains. When compared with the No 

Build Alternative, effects on human remains would be negligible within the Western and Eastern 

Sections under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3.

Tribal Cultural Resource Effects 

CONSTRUCTION

Western Section. No construction activities would be required to implement any of the Build 

Alternative Options within the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area

because the existing railroad ROW and stations from LAUS to Colton would be used. The Build 

Alternative Options would not require construction of new stations, new track or extensions to 

existing track, or the addition of sidings, wayside signals, drainage, or at-grade separations within 

the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. Therefore, no construction 

activities would be anticipated that could result in the effects or impacts on TCRs. When compared 

with the No Build Alternative, effects on TCRs would be negligible within the Western Section under 

Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3.

Eastern Section. Effects on TCRs would vary depending on the future location of a passenger rail 

system within the selected Build Alternative Option. Construction of rail infrastructure improvements 

and station facilities within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area 

could result in effects on TCRs if the resources are near or within an area where an infrastructure

improvement or station facility is being constructed. In addition, ground-disturbing activities may also 

result in inadvertent discovery of previously unknown TCRs. Effects on TCRs may include damage 

or destruction during ground-disturbing activities associated with construction of rail infrastructure 

improvements or station facilities within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural 

Study Area. Avoidance is the preferred way to address TCRs. As all the Build Alternative Options 

propose use of the same Program Corridor, avoidance options at the broad, corridor service-level 
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are limited. However, as described above, decisions on avoidance methods would be evaluated and 

determined during Tier 2/Project-level analysis when site-specific details on the rail infrastructure 

improvement or station facility are known.

When compared with the No Build Alternative, Build Alternative Option 1 could have a substantial 

effect on TCRs within the Eastern Section of the Tier 1/Program Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural 

Study Area. When compared with Build Alternative Option 1, Build Alternative Options 2 and 3 would 

have slightly reduced effects due to a shorter route alignment and reduced station options. However, 

the magnitude of effects would be similar and considered substantial when compared with the No 

Build Alternative.

OPERATION

Western and Eastern Sections. Under Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 3, passenger train 

frequencies proposed as part of the Program would consist of the addition of two daily round-trip,

intercity, diesel-powered passenger trains operating the entire length of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

Cultural Study Area between Los Angeles and Coachella. The operation of the additional passenger 

trains would not anticipated to affect TCRs as passenger trains currently operate in the Western and 

Eastern Sections. Other operational activities would be limited to maintenance of culverts, bridges, 

embankments, and station areas, which are not anticipated to result in effects on TCRs. Effects 

associated with the Western and Eastern Western Sections of Build Alternative Options 1, 2, and 

3 on TCRs would be negligible when compared with the No Build Alternative.

3.13.6 NEPA Summary of Potential Effects

Table 3.13-7 through Table 3.13-9 summarize the qualitative assessment of potential effects 

(negligible, moderate, or substantial) under NEPA for each of the Build Alternative Options. This 

service-level analysis uses the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area to determine if cultural 

resources may be affected and the relative magnitude of the effect.
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Table 3.13-7. NEPA Summary of Effects on Historic Properties

Alternative Option

NRHP-Listed 

Properties

Resources 

Eligible for 

Listing on the 

NRHP 

Resources Not 

Evaluated for 

NRHP 

Eligibility

Total Number of 

Previously 

Recorded 

Cultural 

Resources

Potential Intensity of 

Effect:

Western Section

Potential Intensity of 

Effect:

Eastern Section

No Build Alternativea Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Construction: None

Operation: None

Construction: None

Operation: None

Build Alternative Option 1 

(Coachella Terminus) 7 41 188 384

Construction: Negligible 

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial 

Operation: Negligible

Build Alternative Option 2 

(Indio Terminus) 7 36 171 361

Construction: Negligible 

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial 

Operation: Negligible

Build Alternative Option 3 

(Indio Terminus with 

Limited Third Track)

7 36 171 361

Construction: Negligible 

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial 

Operation: Negligible

Notes:

a The No Build Alternative includes existing and potential expansion of roadway, passenger rail, and air travel facilities within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural 

Study Area; however, for the service-level evaluation, identifying levels of effect from potential expansion of those facilities is speculative and would be 

dependent on Tier 2/Project-level analysis.

NRHP=National Register of Historic Places
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Table 3.13-8. NEPA Summary of Effects on Human Remains

Alternative Option

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Western Section

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Eastern Section

No Build Alternativea Construction: None

Operation: None

Construction: None

Operation: None

Build Alternative Option 1 

(Coachella Terminus)

Construction: Negligible

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Moderate

Operation: Negligible

Build Alternative Option 2 

(Indio Terminus)

Construction: Negligible

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Moderate

Operation: Negligible

Build Alternative Option 3 

(Indio Terminus with Limited Third Track)

Construction: Negligible

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Moderate

Operation: Negligible

Notes:

a The No Build Alternative includes existing and potential expansion of roadway, passenger rail, and air travel 

facilities within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area; however, for the service-level evaluation, 

identifying levels of effect from potential expansion of those facilities is speculative and would be dependent on Tier 

2/Project-level analysis.

Table 3.13-9. NEPA Summary of Effects on Tribal Cultural Resources

Alternative Option

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Western Section

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Eastern Section

No Build Alternativea Construction: None

Operation: None

Construction: None

Operation: None

Build Alternative Option 1 

(Coachella Terminus)

Construction: Negligible

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial

Operation: Negligible

Build Alternative Option 2 

(Indio Terminus)

Construction: Negligible

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial

Operation: Negligible
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Alternative Option

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Western Section

Potential Intensity of Effect:

Eastern Section

Build Alternative Option 3 

(Indio Terminus with Limited Third Track)

Construction: Negligible 

Operation: Negligible

Construction: Substantial

Operation: Negligible

Notes:

a The No Build Alternative includes existing and potential expansion of roadway, passenger rail, and air travel 

facilities within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area; however, for the service-level evaluation, 

identifying levels of effect from potential expansion of those facilities is speculative and would be dependent on Tier 

2/Project-level analysis.

3.13.7 CEQA Summary of Potential Impacts

Based on the information provided in Sections 3.13.4 and 3.13.5, and considering the CEQA 

Guidelines Appendix G Checklist questions for cultural resources and TCRs, the Build Alternative 

Options would have potentially significant impacts on cultural and TCRs when reviewed on a 

Program-wide basis. Placing the rail infrastructure improvements and new stations largely within or 

along the existing ROW reduces the potential for significant impacts associated with known 

resources. However, because the infrastructure and station sites have not been selected, some 

areas that may contain cultural and tribal resources may be significantly impacted. At the Tier 

1/Program analysis level, it is not possible to know the location, extent, and particular characteristics 

of impacts on these resources. Proposed mitigation strategies discussed in Section 3.13.8 would be 

applied to reduce potential impacts. 

Table 3.13-10 summarizes the CEQA significance conclusions for the Build Alternative Options; the 

proposed mitigation strategies that could be applied to minimize, reduce, or avoid the potential 

impacts; and the significance determination after mitigation strategies are applied. The identification 

and implementation of site-specific mitigation measures necessary for Tier 2/Project-level 

implementation would occur as part of the Tier 2/Project-level analysis. 
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Table 3.13-10. CEQA Summary of Impacts on Cultural Resources 

Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

Would the Program cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?

Construction

Western Section – No Impact. No construction impacts on historical resources are 

anticipated under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

evaluation level because no physical improvements that would require 

ground-disturbing activities are proposed or required within the Western Section.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Eastern Section – Potentially Significant. Potential impacts on historic resources 

depend on the location of rail infrastructure improvements, station facilities and types of 

construction activities, which have yet to be determined. The Eastern Section contains 

known historical resources and could contain additional unknown historical resources. 

Construction of rail infrastructure improvements and station facilities have the potential 

to impact historical resources through ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, potentially 

significant impacts under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 are anticipated at the Tier 

1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level. Site-specific impacts on historical resources would 

be identified and evaluated during the Tier 2/Project-level analysis.

CUL-1 Potentially Significant. CUL-1 minimize, reduce,

or avoid potential impacts on historical resources 

through design, further analysis, and the 

avoidance of resources. However, it is unknown to 

what extent and type of impact on historical 

resources would occur. Impacts may remain 

significant and unavoidable if further analysis 

determines that a non-renewable historical 

resource would be impacted by the rail 

infrastructure improvement or station facility 

proposed. 

Operation

Western Section – No Impact. The increase in train service (two additional round-trip 

daily trains within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area) would not change 

existing land use and would not result in changes associated with a historical resource. 

Therefore, no operational impacts under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 are 

anticipated at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level. 

Not 

applicable

Not applicable
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Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

Eastern Section – No Impact. Once construction ceases, operation of the new railroad 

infrastructure and stations under the Build Alternative Options are not anticipated to 

result in changes associated with a historical resource. Therefore, no impacts under 

Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 are anticipated at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Would the Program cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?

Construction

Western Section – No Impact. No construction impacts on archaeological resources

are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

evaluation level because no physical improvements that would require 

ground-disturbing activities are proposed or required within the Western Section.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Eastern Section – Potentially Significant. Potential impacts on archaeological 

resources depend on the location of rail infrastructure improvements, station facilities, 

and types of construction activities, which are currently unknown. The Eastern Section 

contains known archaeological resources and could contain additional unknown 

archaeological resources. Construction of rail infrastructure improvements and station 

facilities have the potential to impact archaeological resources through 

ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, potentially significant impacts are anticipated 

under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level. 

Site-specific impacts on archaeological resources would be identified and evaluated 

during the Tier 2/Project-level analysis.

CUL-1 Potentially Significant. CUL-1 would minimize, 

reduce, or avoid potential impacts on 

archaeological resources through design, further 

analysis, and the avoidance of resources. 

However, it is unknown to what extent and type of 

impact on archaeological resources would occur. 

Impacts may remain significant and unavoidable if 

further analysis determines that a non-renewable 

archaeological resource would be impacted by the 

rail infrastructure improvement or station facility 

proposed. 
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Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

Operation

Western Section – No Impact. The increase in train service (two additional round-trip 

daily trains within the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area) would not change 

existing land use and would not result in a substantial change of an archaeological 

resource within the Western Section of the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR Cultural Study Area. 

Therefore, no impacts are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3. 

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Eastern Section – No Impact. Once construction ceases, operation of the new railroad 

infrastructure and stations under the Build Alternative Options are not anticipated to 

result in changes associated with an archaeological resource. Therefore, no impacts are 

anticipated under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Would the Program disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of dedicated cemeteries?

Construction

Western Section – No Impact. No construction impacts on human remains are 

anticipated under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR 

evaluation level because no physical improvements that would require 

ground-disturbing activities are proposed or required within the Western Section.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable

Eastern Section – Less Than Significant. The potential for the inadvertent discovery 

of human remains during ground disturbing activities exists. However, implementation of 

requirements and procedures contained in California Health and Safety Code Section 

7050.5 and Section 7052 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097 would 

reduce these potential impacts to less than significant. 

Not 

applicable

Not applicable
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Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

Operation

Western Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Western Section include 

the maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require ground-disturbing activities that could result in 

the disturbance of human remains. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated 

under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Eastern Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Eastern Section include the 

maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require ground-disturbing activities that could result in 

the disturbance of human remains. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated 

under Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Would the Program cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code 

section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, 

sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is listed or eligible for listing in the California 

Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k)?

Construction

Western Section – No Impact. No construction impacts on TCRs are anticipated under 

Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level 

because no physical improvements are proposed or required within the Western 

Section.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Eastern Section – Potentially Significant. Potential impacts depend on the location of 

rail infrastructure improvements, station facilities, and types of construction activities, 

which are currently unknown. Construction of rail infrastructure improvements and 

station facilities have the potential to impact TCRs through ground-disturbing activities. 

Preliminary AB 52 Native American consultation at the Tier 1/Program evaluation phase 

has been initiated and completed. While no specific comments were received regarding 

TCRs, requests to receive Tier 2/Project-level notifications were made. Site-specific 

CUL-1 Potentially Significant. CUL-1 would minimize, 

reduce, or avoid potential impacts on TCRs

through design, further analysis, and the 

avoidance of resources. However, it is unknown to 

what extent and type of impact on TCRs would 

occur. Impacts may remain significant and 

unavoidable if further analysis determines that a 
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Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

impacts on TCRs would be identified and evaluated during the Tier 2/Project-level 

analysis.

non-renewable TCR would be impacted by the rail 

infrastructure improvement or station facility 

proposed. Additional AB 52 Native American 

consultation is anticipated to be initiated during the 

Tier 2/Project-level environmental process.

Operation

Western Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Western Section include 

the maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require activities that could result in the impacts on

TCRs. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 

1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level. 

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Eastern Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Eastern Section include the 

maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require activities that could result in the impacts on

TCRs. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 

1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Would the Program cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in PRC section 21074 as either 

a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object 

with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is a resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported 

by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of PRC Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria set 

forth in subdivision (c) of PRC Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American 

tribe?

Construction

Western Section – No Impact. No construction impacts on TCRs are anticipated under 

Build Alternative Option 1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level 

because no physical improvements are proposed or required within the Western 

Section.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 
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Impact Summary Mitigation 

Strategy

Significance with Mitigation Strategy

Eastern Section – Potentially Significant. Potential impacts depend on the location of 

rail infrastructure improvements, station facilities, and types of construction activities, 

which are currently unknown. Construction of rail infrastructure improvements and 

station facilities have the potential to impact TCRs through ground-disturbing activities. 

Preliminary AB 52 Native American consultation at the Tier 1/Program evaluation phase 

has been initiated and completed. While no specific comments were received regarding 

TCRs, requests to receive Tier 2/Project-level notifications were made. Site-specific 

impacts on TCRs would be identified and evaluated during the Tier 2/Project-level 

analysis.

CUL-1 Potentially Significant. CUL-1 would minimize, 

reduce, or avoid potential impacts on TCRs

through design, further analysis, and the 

avoidance of resources. However, it is unknown to 

what extent and type of impact on TCRs would 

occur. Impacts may remain significant and 

unavoidable if further analysis determines that a 

non-renewable TCR would be impacted by the rail 

infrastructure improvement or station facility 

proposed. Additional AB 52 Native American 

consultation is anticipated to be initiated during the 

Tier 2/Project-level environmental process.

Operation

Western Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Western Section include 

the maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require activities that could result in the impacts on

TCRs. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 

1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level. 

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Eastern Section – No Impact. Operational activities in the Eastern Section include the 

maintenance of existing rail infrastructure and station facilities. These maintenance 

activities are not anticipated to require activities that could result in the impacts on

TCRs. Therefore, no operational impacts are anticipated under Build Alternative Option 

1, 2, or 3 at the Tier 1/Program EIS/EIR evaluation level.

Not 

applicable

Not applicable 

Notes:

AB=Assembly Bill; EIS=environmental impact statement; EIR=environmental impact report; PRC=Public Resource Code; TCR=tribal cultural resource

.
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3.13.8 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Strategies

Identified below are proposed mitigation strategies for further consideration in the Tier 2/Project-level 

analysis. Specific mitigation measures, to the extent required, would be identified and discussed 

during Tier 2/Project-level analysis after design details are known and specific impacts are identified

for the site-specific rail infrastructure improvement or station facility being proposed. If any Tier 

2/Project-level analysis results in an adverse effect on a property that is listed, eligible, or potentially 

eligible for listing in the NRHP or CRHR, potential site-specific mitigation measures could include 

additional research to recover data or exhaust the information potential of a site, changes in project 

design, development of a memorandum of agreement with a public involvement component, a 

programmatic agreement, site-specific archaeological treatment plans and historic building surveys, 

and other site-specific mitigation measures that may result from subsequent Tier 2/Project-level 

Section 106 and AB 52 consultation.

Additional Section 106 and AB 52 consultation with all applicable consulting parties, resource 

agencies, and/or Native American tribes over potentially affected properties would be key to

developing successful Tier 2/Project-level documents for any of the Build Alternative Options. 

Decisions on avoidance methods would be evaluated and determined during Tier 2/Project-level 

analysis when site-specific details on the rail infrastructure improvement or station facility are known.

Mitigation Strategy CUL-1: During subsequent Tier 2/Project-level analysis, a preliminary cultural 

resource screening shall be conducted by the identified lead agency or agencies to determine if the 

Tier 2/Project-level improvement being proposed has the potential to impact cultural resources. If the 

proposed Tier 2/Project-level improvement has the potential to impact cultural resources, a qualified 

cultural resources specialist shall conduct a cultural resources assessment report to document the 

existing cultural resources within the Tier 2/Project-level Study Area. The report may include, but not 

be limited to, the following: 

• Survey and inventory for archaeological resources, including those determined to be tribal 

cultural resources, including a review of updated information for the applicable cultural 

information center and other data repositories. 

• Survey and inventory for historic, built-environment resources, including a review of updated 

information for the applicable cultural information center and other data repositories. 

• All identified cultural resources shall be recorded using the appropriate California 

Department of Parks and Recreation cultural resources recordation forms. 
Coachella Valley-San Gorgonio Pass Rail Corridor Service Program – Draft EIS/EIR

3.13 Cultural Resources

May 2021 | 3.13-64

• Cultural resources shall be evaluated for eligibility for inclusion in the National Register of 

Historic Places and California Register of Historical Resources, and evaluations shall be 

conducted by individuals who meet the Secretary of the Interior’s professional qualification 

standards in archaeology, history, and/or architectural history. 

• Documentation of Tier 2/Project-level Section 106 and Assembly Bill 52 Native American 

consultation efforts and site-specific recommendations and input received from Native 

American tribes including but not limited to: 

o The provision of Native American monitors on site during ground disturbance activities

o Identification of procedures regarding repatriation of cultural items

o Notification and early coordination with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and applicable 

Tribal Historic Preservation Officers for Tier 2/Project-level fieldwork and surveys 

occurring within Native American reservation lands.

If the resource is found to be a historical resource/historic property, the agency carrying out 

implementation of the Tier 2/Project-level improvement shall be required to identify and implement 

site-specific mitigation if the Tier 2/Project-level improvement has a substantial adverse change to 

the resource, including physical damage, destruction, relocation, or alteration of the property that 

materially alters in an adverse manner those physical characteristics of the property that convey its 

significance for inclusion in or eligibility for the NRHP, California Register of Historical Resources, or 

local register. These Tier 2/Project-level site-specific mitigation measures shall be developed in 

coordination with applicable Section 106 and AB 52 consultation requirements.